Blue Yeti is one of the best brands for podcasting microphones for a long time. This popular USB dynamic mic succeeds in delivering value. You can choose the type of directional capability you want in Blue Yeti. Different pattern selections include bi-directional, stereo, omnidirectional and cardioid condenser. Blue Yeti delivers virtually all types of directional capabilities and lets you decide which one to opt for. The impedance of Blue Yeti is quite low. At 16 ohms, it is capable of being highly receptive. This enhances the audio quality with no gain issues. Whether it be music instruments, interviews with people or podcast, it can be used for all types. Blue Yeti USB is also works with Windows 10, 8, 7 and XP. Therefore, you can easily transfer the audio to your computer. Use this to record a podcast today!

Audio Technica has been a popular podcast equipment brand for a long long time. It is succeeds in providing it all, from quality and durability to style. There are two types of output delivered. One is USB, and the other is XLR microphone. USB is ideal for digital recording, while the latter allows the podcast product to be used for live performances. This is achieved by connecting it to a sound system. These two functions together deliver quite a lot of value to customers. To make sure that no unwanted sound is recorded, it is accompanied by a cardioid pattern. No side or rear sounds will be picked up. Hence, whether it is podcast or performing, you can do it all and be as clear as possible. Without doubt, this is one of the best usb podcast microphones.

Pros

Unbeatable price
• Built-in headphone jack allows you to monitor effectively
• Excellent for situations where controlling sounds is not a possibility
USB

Cons

• The blue light that signals whether the mic is on or not burns out quickly

Verdict

Audio-Technica ATR2100 USB Cardioid Dynamic is one of the best podcast microphone in 2020 for podcasters.

Shure makes popular podcast equipment that last for a long time like Shure sm7b. When it comes to budget podcast microphone, this hasw all the options you need. This dynamic podcast mic has features tailor-made for podcast recording, vocals, and live performing. For these purposes, it manages to offer best level performances with no gain. This product features an extensive frequency range. To be specific, the range offered is 50 to 15,000 Hz. This is one of the reasons why it can be used to record vocals and perform with different instruments with people. Some microphones may pick up handling noise, which greatly affects the experience for the audience. However, the Shure SM58-LC includes a mounting system that comes with pneumatic shock, which allows it to handle all sorts of unwanted background noise and keep it at bay. This is further ensured by the use of cardioid pickup directional capability. Your main podcast sound will be isolated from other sounds to maximize clarity.

Pros

• It is very durable owing to its premium quality construction
• Comfortable to hold on to
• Has a reasonable price

Cons

• You won’t get a high sibilance

Verdict

Shure SM58-LC Vocal Microphone is the best budget microphones for podcasting in 2020.

Audio Technica features a lot of the best podcast microphones. This can be used by people who are enthusiasts podcaster and professional podcaster alike. It uses cardioid directional capability. This means that the level of noise recorded is minimal. Moreover, it is capable of handling high sound pressures with immense ease. This makes it usable for intense performance sound quality without the fear of it failing. The design of the product features an integral role in delivering quality output. For instance, the diaphragm is made to be larger than usual so that your natural voiceover is recorded without any breaks or interruptions. It is also equipped with a 10-foot cable, which means that the chance of the mic not reaching the interface is highly unlikely.

Pros

Epic price for performance
• Quality audio is delivered
• It can be used for voiceovers and podcast alike
• The size is effective

Cons

• Not highly durable

Verdict

Audio-Technica AT2035 Large Diaphragm Studio is one of the best podcasting microphones in 2020.

Are you looking for a popular podcast mic that looks great while features great options? If so, you might want to try the Encore 100i. Not only does this deliver high bit quality, but it is also equipped with an array of value-added accessories people love. For instance, it comes with a soft-grip clip and a storage pouch. The latter allows for a lot effective storage options as well as ease of portability from one place to another. It is equipped with the custom-tuned circuit as well. This aids in catering to high frequency responses as well. The design of the product is also stylish, and the slim construction allows you to comfortably hold on to it.

Pros

Excellent grip
Awesome sound quality
Budget price

Cons

• Doesn’t handle noise well

Verdict

Blue Microphones ENCORE 100i Microphone is one of the best podcast microphone that gives you great bang for your buck.

[Better-than-CD Recordings] This recording mic captures the details, nuances, and articulation with high sampling rate (192KHZ/24Bit), extended dynamic range and smooth frequency response of 100Hz-18kHz. It is professional microphone which offers richer and crystal clear audios for livestreams, podcast, YouTube videos, voice-over, meetings and gaming.

[Screen out unwanted noise] Background noise is greatly eliminated due to the cardioid pickup pattern that only focuses sound sources directly in front of the microphone. Pop filter with double mesh layering and foam windscreen help reduce subtle plosive and wind sound.

[Sturdy Arm Stand Set] The all steel scissor arm stand is sufficient for holding the entire set up steady and is fully adjustable with tension knobs to keep it in place. Also, the shock mount on it holds the streaming mic without slipping and isolates it from vibrating off anything like stand, desk or floor.

[Plug and Play] This USB condenser microphone greatly saves your time and extra cost because it provides direct plug-and-play connection to Mac and Windows computers without any additional software or accessories. Just connect the studio microphone in seconds via standard USB 2.0 port.

Plug and play Usb recording microphone with 5.9-Foot USB Cable included for computer PC laptop that connects directly to USB port for record music,computer singing or podcast. Easy to use and install on Mac or PC. (Not compatible with Xbox and Phones)

Solid sturdy metal construction design computer microphone with stable tripod stand is convenient when you are doing voice overs or livestreams on YouTube.

Recording microphone with additional volume knob itself has a louder output and is more sensitive,your voice would be heard well enough when gaming ,skyping or voice recording.

USB-powered design condenser microphone for recording no need the 48v Phantom power supply, work well with Cortana,Discord,voice chat and voice recognition.

Cardioid polar pattern condenser microphone for computer captures your voice properly,produce clear smooth and crisp sound without static noise.Great for gamers/streamers at isolating the sounds from the main source and separating them from any background noise. Does the job well for streaming broadcast ,OBS and teamspeak.

【Durable Arm Set】Studio Microphone with versatile and sturdy broadcast suspension boom scissor arm gives you great tools for capturing your voice in a podcast or voiceover.The Double Pop Filter provides two layers of dissipation, removes the rush of air caused by vocal plosives,minimizing the popping sounds that can compromise your recording is great for studio as well as home use.

【Easy to Attach】The streaming microphone adjustable boom studio scissor Arm Stand features a heavy-duty combo mount that consists of a sturdy C-clamp and a detachable desktop mount.With 13" fixed horizontal arm and offers a 30" reach.The low-profile,table-hugging design allows on-air talent to perform without facial obstruction to record podcasts or make dubbing sounds for videos, use voice chat in online games or doing business on Skype.

A Professional USB Condenser Microphone :This USB condensermicrophone uses the most advanced chipset. Its sampling rate is up to 192KHz/24bit, while the other microphone's rate only up to 48kHZ/24bit. Therefore, this USB microphone would provide a clearer,smoother, flatter voice.

Cardioid Polar Pattern :Cardioid pattern design enables this USB microphone kit to cancel noise from surroundings, making a clearer and more real sound. Moreover, with help of Pop Filter in package, it would record a better and clearer voice for words with pronunciation of b, p, f.

Easy to Set Up :Plug and Play, this usb microphone is no need to install any driver, compatible with PC, Computer and Laptop, Windows, Linux. This makes it easily to use for chatting, gaming, recording, podcasting, broadcasting, streaming and Youtube.

Durable Arm Set :The adjustable scissor arm stand is made out of all steel construction, sturdy and durable. Folding type, convenient to carry. Can be mounted on the announcers'table. The double-braced arms add strength.

PLUG AND PLAY: The Pyle Computer and PS4 Game Console Desktop Microphone features simple USB plug-and-play operation. Simply plug it to your laptop’s USB port, select it as your input in your software settings, and create your own audio

UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: This compact desk microphone is ideal for everything from studio vocals to gaming, singing, streaming, podcasting, and desktop recording. Works w/ Windows PC, Mac and Linux operating systems. For home, office and business use

FREESTANDING PLACEMENT: Features freestanding placement on any desktop, counter or table w/ the included microphone stand. It has a distinctive cardioid pickup pattern with a back electret condenser microphone, perfect addition to recording equipment

What is a podcasting microphone?

For podcasters, the importance of having quality audio is crucial. After all, there is no video in a podcast. The podcaster solely relies on the listening experience to leave their mark. With such immense importance of the act of listening, that you need a quality microphone. There are various microphones for podcasters available in the market, but to make sure that you pick the best one, you must be aware of various recommendations.

Types of Microphones for Podcasting

Podcasting microphones can be mainly divided into two types, namely a dynamic microphone and a USB-condenser. There is a third type as well, called a ribbon microphone. which is a subcategory with similar mechanism.

Dynamic Microphone

These microphones have features that are compact, sturdy and quite unique. With the use of a wire coil and a magnetic element, this microphone is able to perform the reverse function of a mini speaker. While the technicality behind it is quite simple, this simplicity is very beneficial. It ensures that the microphone is able to bear more wear and tear and be more durable than others.

Condenser Microphone

The audio signals of a condenser microphone are strong. This is why it is more responsive to minimal sounds as well. These feature dual capacitor plates that are required to be powered by an eternal source. This source is pivotal while drawing phantom power that charges the microphone and makes it capable of performing its function.

What’s the Difference?

There are various differences between the two choice. Dynamic mic do not need an external power source to be functional. It also picks up subtle sound from a limited supply. Compared to this, a USB condenser mics must be connected to an external source. However, the quality of the audio is much better most of the time. The better enrichment in tone allows for an enhanced audio experience, which is sought for podcast.

How to choose a podcasting microphone?

Ability to Pick Sound

This is the first features a podcaster should check. A directional ability or the ability of a microphone to pick up sound makes or breaks the podcast experience. It also describes how the given product will pick up sound from different directions. You can divide the directional capability into two types, omnidirectional and bi-directional.

Omnidirectional

If a microphone is omnidirectional, it is capable of picking up sound from all possible directions. While this means that all sounds will be picked up, this may not necessarily be a good thing. Picking up sound from all directions means that unwanted noise will be picked up as well. For personal podcasters, this is a major no-no. However, if you are broadcasting or wish for a microphone for reporting, these types are perfect for you.

Bi-directional

These are only capable of picking up sound from opposite sides. This function itself makes it popular among podcasters. This is because podcasters either run the show alone or get a guest to talk about an issue. In both cases, a bi-directional microphone is perfect. However, when it comes to price, these microphones are significantly pricier than omni-directional ones. Hence, if you are on a tight budget, a bi-directional microphone is expensive so switch for another one and upgrade later.

Microphone Receptiveness

Microphone receptiveness is also called impedance. The better the receptiveness of the microphone, the higher the chance it will pick up subtle or low sounds as well.
Look for the impedance in the product description. This is measured in ohms. Any rating of 600 ohms or lower will be successful in delivering quality audio and retaining better audio. Try to avoid very high impedance rating. The higher the rating, the lower the quality of the audio.

Range of Frequencies

Frequency response is the list of frequencies that the podcast microphone is able to record. Merely knowing the range is not important; it is integral to check whether the microphone will respond to specific frequencies. After all, your instruments like a guitar have different ones altogether. If you wish to incorporate both in your podcast, you must know the frequency responses of the given product. While for vocals, a microphone with a high is ideal, for bass, the opposite is true. Some might even deliver you a range which is ideal for both. However, these will be a bit more in price.

Price

The price of the product you choose will depend on various things. Different types of microphone have different price. Even within the same type, one with lower impedance is likely to be expensive price. Same is the case with an omni-directional microphone.

This is why it is important to set a budget as well as a priority list. What are the features that you can compromise on for the sake of a budget-friendly price? Remember, microphones are not cheap in price. Don’t try to opt for one either. This is because the quality of your podcast depends on it.

Moreover, it is better if you go to the store after setting a budget for your price. This filters options that are too expensive or affordable. Hence, you won’t end up overspending and later regretting your decision.

Durability

Another way to achieve cost-effectiveness is via choosing a durable microphone with good build quality. The longer the product lasts, the more you can record with it. Durable items also make up for a high initial cost because in the long run, they tend to much more cost-effective. Not to mention, you can travel with them.

As a rule of thumb, dynamic microphones are much more sturdy and durable than USB-condenser microphones. Try to go for those that feature heavy-duty construction if you are used to dropping your tools often.